Mike Tindall mourns the death of his father Phil, a former rugby captain, after 23 years with Parkinson's

Mike Tindall disclosed on his "The Good, The Bad & The Rugby" podcast that his father, Phil Tindall, died last week at 79 following a prolonged struggle with Parkinson's disease that began in 2003. Phil, a former fly-half and centre who debuted for Otley Rugby Club at 17, captained the side in the 1972-73 season. The club marked his passing with a minute's silence and a written tribute in the match programme, which Mike later viewed.

The senior Tindall had endured the disease for over two decades, becoming a catalyst for Mike's involvement with Cure Parkinson's, where he has organized charity golf events and other fundraisers. Mike also recalled his father's earlier injury that forced early retirement from rugby at 27. Phil's wife, Linda, cared for him throughout his illness. The family’s experience has kept Parkinson's research and awareness at the forefront of Mike's public activities.